Rambling into 2026: New year walks in East Yorkshire

Whether it is the rugged drama of clifftop views, rolling hills or the invigorating salty sea air of the coastline, East Yorkshire has a scene setter for every mood.

So what better way to work off those Christmas turkey legs than to use your own?

We've spoken to the East Yorkshire and Derwent Area Ramblers to ask them for some of their favourite walks to do to start the year.

So this guide should give you the bracing start you need to breathe in 2026.

The Hotham circular is described as a "delightful walk and relatively mud free", by secretary Marian Thomas, who says those factors are important given the unpredictably soggy weather for this time of year.

It starts from North Cave, parking either at the wetlands or the small car park opposite All Saints church.

It is approximately five miles (8km) long and meanders through the beautiful Hotham estate continuing through Hotham village.

It continues north via a quiet track and fields, returning on different paths through the Hotham estate to North Cave.

The next scenic walk takes us deep into the dales.

Wayrham Dale, Fridaythorpe and Huggate Wold is just over seven miles (11.2km) long. The starting point from Wayrham picnic site, off the A166, is a good place to grab a warm drink before setting off.

It winds through Wayrham and Bradeham Dale, ascending to Cowdale Leys and Ings Plantation and then on to Fridaythorpe village.

It returns via Huggate Wold and follows tracks and a minor road back to Wayrham.

This walk, which starts from Millington Wood car park, is described as a showcase for the Yorkshire Wolds, providing wonderful views.

It climbs 661ft (201m) uphill over its five mile (8km) distance and is regarded as a thorough new year workout.

After Millington Wood and Millington Beck comes the testing uphill zigzag path, but the Pockington Group of Ramblers says "if taken at a steady pace with a few rests to admire the view, most people can manage it without too much difficulty".

You will then head via Cobdale Cottage on Cobdale Lane, High Barns Farm and "Huggate Sheepwalk". To finish is a pleasant level walk along Pasture Dale and Millington Dale back to the Millington Wood car park.

You will then have earned some welcome refreshment in either the Rambler's Rest cafe or the Gait Inn in Millington village (check opening times over the Christmas period).

More walks are available on the East Yorkshire and Derwent Area Ramblers' website.

The programme of new year walks includes:

• Warter - 8.5 miles (13.7km), Saturday 3 January
• Hackness circular - nine miles (14.5km), Sunday 4 January
• Warter circular 8.5 miles (13.7km), Sunday 4 January
• Ryedale Walk - Hole of Horcum & Bridestones - 9.6 miles (15.4km), Sunday 4 January
• Introductory walk through Beverley - five miles (8km), Sunday 4 January
• South Dalton - 5.2 miles (8.4km), Monday 5 January
• Huggate Wolds - 7.3 miles (11.7km), Tuesday 6 January

Check the website for more details.

The main objective of any walk is to enjoy it, but also to stay safe.

We have featured just some of the many walking groups, which are the recommended option, but further advice on the official Ramblers' website includes planning your route, giving thought to your fitness and the route's difficulty and sharing it with others.

Other safety advice includes:

• Carry essentials like a charged phone, water and food - perhaps a personal alarm
• Monitor forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes
• Walk towards traffic in well-lit areas
• Also wear appropriate clothing for comfort and visibility - this can include bright and/or reflective clothing; good shoes and extra layers
• Always have a back-up plan for getting home

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